Dance History Photo of the Week for #MLKDay2026 : this image of Arthur Mitchell in Balanchine's Agon is by William Vasillov. The assassination of MLK inspired the 1st Black principal @nycballet to start @DTHballet, which will appear @NYCityCenter in April.
At Dance Theatre of Harlem, we carry that legacy forward—moving with purpose, telling our stories through art, and celebrating Black excellence every day.
Happy Juneteenth! ❤️🖤💚
#JubileeDay#DanceTheatreofHarlem#BlackJoy
Today we honor Juneteenth—a celebration of freedom, truth, and joyful resilience. On June 19, 1865, news of emancipation finally reached the enslaved in Galveston, TX—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
#Juneteenth#FreedomDay#BlackHistory
Heads up, RedHawks! Next Tuesday the 25th, we will have a day of programming with @DTHballet. Members will host a dance workshop, as well as a panel discussion focused on successful professional careers in the arts. To RSVP, make sure to visit the link: https://t.co/IFoziUPKma
Today, we celebrate George Balanchine, a pioneer who transformed ballet with his groundbreaking choreography. His work still inspires dancers worldwide. At Dance Theatre of Harlem, we honor his legacy of innovation and excellence.
Happy birthday, Mr. B! 🎉
#GeorgeBalanchine
The assassination of Dr. King in 1968 profoundly affected Arthur Mitchell. In response, Mitchell founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem in 1969, creating opportunities for young Black dancers to train in classical ballet.
Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose mission for social equality continues to inspire generations.
🎥Archival footage of Arthur Mitchell and the DTH Company backstage at the Royal Opera House.
#MartinLutherKingJr#MLKDay#DanceTheatreofHarlem
During her leadership (1989-2011), she took the Company to unprecedented heights. In 2005 her idea of a permanent home for the Ailey organization was realized with the opening of The Joan Weill Center for Dance.
Sending heartfelt condolences and love to all.
We celebrate the life of the great Ms. Judith Jamison. An icon and legend. We are all forever changed by her artistry and impact on the world. May she rest in peace. 🤎
“Through dance, we’re as close to God as we’re going to get—until he calls us home.” - Judith Jamison
After dancing for Mr. Ailey, she went on to star on Broadway, appeared as a guest artist with ballet companies, and formed her own company, The Jamison Project. In 1989, Mr. Ailey asked her to return to Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and succeed him as Artistic Director.
Now in his seventh season with Dance Theatre of Harlem, he has performed works by esteemed choreographers such as Claudia Schreier, Robert Garland, William Forsythe, Stanton Welch, George Balanchine, Anabelle Lopez Ochoa, Darrell Grand Moultrie, and Robert Bondara and more.
Join us in wishing a Happy Birthday to our incredible Company Artist Derek Brockington! 🎉
Drop some celebratory emojis below! 🥳
Photo by: Christopher Duggan
#HappyBirthday#DanceTheatreofHarlem#DerekBrockington
Derek trained at Interlochen Arts Academy and started his professional career with Grand Rapids Ballet before joining Cincinnati Ballet’s Second Company.
Along with our performances, we’ll also be hosting educational activities in both cities. To learn more and get your tickets click the link:
https://t.co/jo6EXHD5X0
Video: CA: Ingrid Silva and Keenan English and Company in George Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante
Studio Rehearsal // The company is gearing up for tour! Have you grabbed your tickets yet? We’re heading to the Musco Center (@muscocenter) in Orange, CA, as well as Cali, Colombia for the Cali International Ballet Festival (@finba_cali)!
#DanceTheatreofHarlem#DTHOnTour
DePrince, was an activist and humanitarian, advocating for children affected by conflict and violence. She served as an Ambassador for War Child Holland and hosted her gala, Dare to Dream, dedicated to promoting the well-being and mental health of children living in war zones.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Michaela Mabinty DePrince. 🕊️
DePrince started her professional ballet career at Dance Theatre of Harlem, making history as the youngest dancer to be featured in principal roles.
#MichaelaMabintyDePrince#RestinPower
She later danced with @DutchNatBallet and continued her career at @BostonBallet. Her story is one of resilience, strength, grace, and courage. Through her memoir, Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina she solidified her impact, extending her influence beyond the stage.